Dan R
Google
After a morning spent planning our next holiday, we decided to swing by Same Same on James Street in Fortitude Valley for a bite. It’s been a while since I last visited, so I was eager to see how the place had evolved since opening. The moment we stepped in, it was clear the vibe was still spot on.
Located in the heart of Fortitude Valley, Same Same is part of the Anyday Restaurant Group, and it definitely lives up to the reputation. We managed to score a spot at the bar, which gave us a perfect view of the chefs in action, showcasing their culinary skills as the kitchen buzzed. Even though it was busy, the staff were on the ball, attentive, friendly, and happy to answer any questions we had about the menu.
We kicked things off by diving into the extensive cocktail list. Each one was fresh, refreshing, and perfectly balanced, ideal for a hot Brisbane day. The drink selection is definitely worth noting.
As for the food, Same Same offers an impressive menu, with options ranging from à la carte to banquets. We decided to stick with à la carte and started with a couple of snacks. The Sa-Koo Sai Moo was a standout, delicate Thai dumplings stuffed with caramelised pork and coriander, this was flavour-packed and delicious.
Next, we tried the Betel Leaf with Prawn, topped with lemongrass, coconut, and chilli. The prawn was fresh, but I did struggle a bit with the size of the leaf, it was a tad small to wrap up the bite neatly.
For mains, we opted for a fresh salad of Grilled Pork Belly and Green Mango, complemented by crunchy snowpeas and a roasted shallot dressing. The salad was a lovely balance of sweetness, tang, and heat, with the chilli providing a nice kick. We also went for the Wagyu Beef Cheek Massaman Curry, which came with a side of fluffy rice and crispy roti. The curry was comforting and rich, with that nostalgic home-cooked feel, xlike something your grandmother might make. The beef was tender and melt-in-your-mouth, though I did wish the portion size was just a tad bigger. The roti, on the other hand, was crisp and perfectly done, a great side to scoop up all that curry goodness.
After the meal, we decided to skip dessert and go for another drink instead—perfect way to round off a relaxed lunch.
Overall, Same Same is a fantastic spot for any occasion—whether you’re after a casual lunch, a laid-back dinner, or just craving some top-notch Thai food. The combination of great food, attentive service, and lively atmosphere makes it a winner. I’ll definitely be back!